Posted by Dr. Bob on February 25, 2004, at 2:27:00
In reply to Erika Schmidt, LCSW - thoughts on children, posted by All Done on February 23, 2004, at 12:23:29
The interaction between genetic factors and environmental factors is not easy (or possible?) to disentangle. The genetic factors in many forms of mental illness are less straightforward than the neurological factors that underlie, for example, learning disabilities. So there may be a predisposition to mental illness that may be triggered by environmental factors or experiences, but the cause and effect are not so direct. Sometimes it's helpful to think in terms of risk factors (like genetic factors or traumatic experience) and protective factors (like family security); obviously you want the protective factors to be stronger than the risk factors.
In terms of making things better for one's own children, I think the most important thing is to offer them a loving, nurturing, protecting, stable, secure parental relationship that permits their growth and development to unfold. As you note, that involves changing abusive patterns. Remaining aware or and in touch with your own past painful experiences is also important because it means you haven't shut down emotionally and have an active awareness of what you don't want to have happen. A positive relationship is the best insurance you can offer.
Erika Schmidt, LCSW
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:316847
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040218/msgs/317416.html